Overview
Sarcococca confusa is a bushy, dense, slowly spreading shrub in the genus Sarcococca, part of the Buxaceae family, with evergreen, glossy dark green leaves foliage. Sarcococca confusa grows best in shade and partial shade, and tolerates well-drained soils and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H5. Suggested uses include hedging, groundcover and woodland garden. It is native to China South-Central.
About
Sarcococca confusa, the sweet box, is a species of flowering plant in the family Buxaceae, probably native to western China. It is an evergreen shrub growing to 2 m (7 ft) tall by 1 m (3 ft) broad, with glossy green ovate leaves and honey-scented white flowers in winter, followed by glossy black spherical fruits, 5 mm in diameter.
Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Sarcococca confusa
About the genus
Sarcococca, nicknamed sweet box or Christmas box, is a genus of flowering plants in the family Buxaceae. native to eastern and southeastern Asia, and the Himalayas, with one species native to Central America. They are slow-growing, monoecious, evergreen shrubs 1–2 m (3–7 ft) tall.
Wikipedia contributors, "Sarcococca", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Sarcococca
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Sarcococca
- Sunlight
- shade, partial shade
- Soil type
- well-drained
- Soil pH
- Neutral
- Soil moisture
- moist
- Aspect
- North-facing
- Exposure
- sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H5
Plant details
Sarcococca confusa size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- shrub
- Habit
- Bushy, dense, slowly spreading
- Foliage
- Evergreen, glossy dark green leaves
- Suggested uses
- hedging, groundcover, woodland garden
- Native to
- China South-Central
- Fragrance
- honey-scented
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Sarcococca confusa
- Cultivation
- Prefers sheltered position in shade or partial shade; tolerant of dry shade once established.
- Pruning
- Prune after flowering to maintain shape.
- Propagation
- Propagation by semi-ripe cuttings in summer.
- Pest resistance
- Generally pest-free
- Disease resistance
- Generally disease-free
Frequently asked questions
How do I grow Sarcococca confusa?
Prefers sheltered position in shade or partial shade; tolerant of dry shade once established.
Where is the best place to plant Sarcococca confusa?
Sarcococca confusa prefers shade and partial shade. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Sarcococca confusa need?
Sarcococca confusa grows best in well-drained soil. It prefers neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays moist.
How do I prune Sarcococca confusa?
Prune after flowering to maintain shape.
Is Sarcococca confusa hardy in the UK?
Sarcococca confusa has an RHS hardiness rating of H5, meaning it is hardy in most of the UK, tolerating -15 to -10°C.
How do I propagate Sarcococca confusa?
Propagation by semi-ripe cuttings in summer.
